How IBS can start

Experts believe IBS does not have 1 specific cause; however, there are a number of theories about what contributes to IBS. Possible considerations include:

• People who suffer from IBS may have a colon that is reactive to certain foods or stressful situations, causing symptoms to flare up
• The colon of people with IBS may have sudden contractions that come and go, or even stop working temporarily
• Contents in your intestines may move too slowly, allowing the absorption of extra fluid and resulting in constipation; or the contents may move too fast, which may give you diarrhea
• IBS may be triggered by a bacterial infection in the gastrointestinal tract
• People with IBS have abnormal serotonin levels in the gastrointestinal tract. This may result in problems with bowel movements

Other factors to consider

Managing symptoms of IBS can be a challenge. There are many foods and life events that can worsen your symptoms, including:

• Stress, conflict, or emotional turmoil
• Eating heavy meals
• Bloating from gas
• Some medicines
• Foods that are high in fat
• Dairy products like milk
• Breads, baked goods, and other foods with wheat, rye, and barley
• Beverages that are carbonated or that contain caffeine
• Alcohol

Additionally, reproductive hormones seem to play a role because women with IBS may have more intense symptoms during their menstrual periods.